Plants

Cryptocoryne retrospiralis

IntermediateFreshwater

Origin: Cryptocoryne retrospiralis comes from India and Bangladesh, where it grows in rivers and streams, often with flow and somewhat hard water. It is one of the 'narrow-leaved' crypts.

Also known as: Cryptocoryne retrospiralis

Fact sheet

Height: 40 cm
Temperature: 22–28 °C
pH: 6.5–8
Lighting: Medium
CO₂: Not needed
Growth rate: Medium
Placement: Background

Overview

Cryptocoryne retrospiralis is a graceful crypt with long narrow slightly twisted strap-like leaves forming grassy thickets in the background. It resembles narrow-leaved Vallisneria or Cryptocoryne balansae but is smaller and finer. It grows under moderate light without CO2, spreading over time by runners. It is quite hardy and suits background and thicket planting. Like all crypts it may 'melt' after sudden changes of conditions.

Appearance

A rosette of long narrow strap-like leaves up to 1 cm wide, slightly spirally twisted, green. Leaf length is 20–40 cm. Height is 20–40 cm. It forms grassy stands that produce runners with daughter rosettes.

Care

Undemanding: moderate light, 22–28 °C, pH 6.5–8.0, tolerates somewhat hard water and flow. CO2 is not required. Nutrient-rich substrate is needed. It looks good planted in a group in the background.

Fertilizing

It feeds mainly through roots: nutrient-rich substrate and root tabs matter. Moderate nutrient demand.

Breeding

It propagates by runners with daughter rosettes, separated once rooted. It gradually forms thickets.

Fun facts

The narrow twisted leaves make the species resemble Vallisneria, though it is a crypt. It tolerates hard water and flow better than many relatives. It belongs to the group of narrow-leaved Indian crypts.